The Japan Startup Support Association (JSSA) has officially opened applications for the "Startup Pitch Award in Sapporo," the headline program of "The JSSA Sapporo Meetup Vol. 65," scheduled for September 18, 2026. This competition is specifically designed for seed-to-early-stage startups that are ready to implement their technologies and ideas to generate real-world value.
Following a rigorous document screening and an online secondary interview, four finalists will be selected to present their pitches live on stage. The Grand Prize winner will be awarded the right to receive up to ¥10 million in investment from the JSSA Association Fund. Additionally, winners gain exclusive JSSA Seed membership benefits and qualify for various sponsor-led awards. To ensure peak performance, finalists will receive intensive, hands-on pitch training from JSSA Representative Director Takahiro Oka, focusing on refining their business narratives and presentation decks.
The panel of judges consists of top-tier experts from the forefront of the startup ecosystem. Confirmed judges include Kazuhiko Chuma (Mizuho Financial Group), Tetsuya Sanada (KLab), Hironao Kunimitsu (FiNANCiE / MintTown), Katsuhisa Kinoshita (Kitano Tatsujin Corporation), Hidetoshi Takano (Key Players), Yoichi Ito (Musashino University), Mitsumasa Iwanaga (EY ShinNihon LLC), and Toshifumi Murata (Sapporo Founders Fund), all of whom will evaluate the business potential of the contestants from a multi-dimensional perspective.
Guided by the theme "Implementing the Future into Society," this award seeks entrepreneurs committed to solving social issues and fostering industrial growth, rather than just showcasing theoretical concepts. The application deadline is August 22, 2026. This event serves as a pivotal turning point for startups looking to launch from Hokkaido to the national and global stage, providing critical opportunities for fundraising, strategic partnerships, and talent acquisition.
For more details, visit: https://venture-pitch-online.com/blog/jssa-sapporo-pitch-award